Deep Plowing Improves Sodic Claypan Soils

Sadic c1aypan soils of western North Dakota (also called Natriboroll or Solonetzic) are improved by deep plowing. Plowing 24 to 30 inches deep crumbles the dense subsoil layer and brings up natural gypsum (calcium sulfate) from below the pan, which permits a physical chemical change to form a better soil. Density is reduced, permeability and water holding capacity are increased, and crop production is benefited.